Earwax is one of those things most of us rarely think about—until it causes problems. Whether it’s muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, or discomfort, excessive earwax can disrupt your daily life and even interfere with devices like hearing aids or earphones. That’s when many people begin searching for professional ear cleaning options.

At Eltham Pharmacy in London, we offer safe and effective ear irrigation to remove built-up wax and restore clarity and comfort. One of the most common questions we hear is: How often should I get professional ear cleaning? The answer depends on your age, health, lifestyle, and individual wax production.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand how to assess your needs and decide when to book a cleaning with a trained healthcare professional.

What Is Professional Ear Cleaning?

Professional ear cleaning refers to earwax removal performed by a qualified practitioner using specialised techniques. At Eltham Pharmacy, we use ear irrigation, a gentle procedure where warm water is used to flush out wax from the ear canal in a controlled and hygienic setting.

Unlike at-home methods, professional cleaning ensures wax is removed without damaging the delicate skin of the ear or risking infection. It’s safe, effective, and often provides instant relief from symptoms.

Why Frequency Varies Between Individuals

There’s no universal rule for how often to get your ears professionally cleaned, because everyone’s ears are different. Some people go years without needing any help, while others benefit from regular cleaning every few months.

The ideal frequency depends on several key factors:

1. Your Natural Wax Production

Some people simply produce more earwax than others. This could be due to genetics, skin type, or anatomy. If you tend to develop blockages regularly, you might need cleaning every 6 to 12 months.

Signs that your ears produce excessive wax include:

• –> Frequent muffled hearing

• –> Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear

• –> Itchiness or irritation

• –> Repeated need for drops or over-the-counter treatments

If this sounds familiar, consider booking regular professional ear cleaning to stay ahead of the problem.

2. Hearing Aid Users

If you wear hearing aids, you’re more likely to experience earwax build-up. The presence of a device in the ear canal can trap wax and stimulate more production, leading to discomfort, feedback, or reduced hearing aid performance.

We typically recommend hearing aid users schedule cleaning every 4 to 6 months, or sooner if wax build-up is affecting sound quality. Keeping your ears clear also helps reduce the risk of infection and extends the lifespan of your device.

3. Earphone or Earplug Users

Regular use of in-ear headphones or foam earplugs can have a similar effect to hearing aids. They block the natural migration of wax out of the ear canal and may push wax deeper inside, increasing the chance of impaction.

If you use these items daily—especially during exercise or sleep—you might benefit from annual or twice-yearly cleaning, depending on how your ears feel and function.

4. Age-Related Changes

As we age, our ears change. The wax becomes drier and harder, and the skin in the ear canal becomes thinner and more sensitive. Older adults are more prone to impacted wax, which can cause hearing difficulties and balance issues.

For adults over 60, we recommend discussing ear care during routine health reviews and considering professional ear cleaning once a year as a preventative measure, especially if hearing aids are used.

5. Medical History or Ear Conditions

People with a history of eczema, psoriasis, otitis externa, or narrow ear canals may experience more frequent blockages. In these cases, cleaning should be tailored to individual symptoms, often every 3 to 6 months or as recommended by a healthcare provider.

If you’ve previously had ear infections or ear surgery, always consult a professional before attempting any form of wax removal.

Warning Signs That It’s Time to Book a Cleaning

Even if you don’t follow a routine schedule, it’s important to know the signs that suggest wax build-up may need attention:

• • –> Sudden or gradual hearing loss

  • –> A plugged or blocked feeling in one or both ears

  • –> Ear discomfort or itchiness

  • –> Hearing aid feedback or interference

  • –> History of using cotton buds or other DIY methods

  • –> Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)

Tinnitus can be a sign of other issues, but our team can advise on when to see a specialist.

Book Safe, Professional Ear Cleaning in London

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms or just want the reassurance of clear, healthy ears, Eltham Pharmacy in London is here to help. Our trained pharmacy team offers professional ear irrigation in a clean, comfortable environment.

We’ll assess your ear health, determine whether irrigation is suitable, and gently remove any built-up wax. Most patients experience immediate improvement in hearing and comfort.

Booking is quick and easy! Simply call us or head to our booking page to arrange your appointment. Don’t risk your hearing with cotton buds or candles. Trust the professionals at Eltham Pharmacy for safe, effective ear care tailored to your needs.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.